Mentors and how have they assisted you in your career: I have had many mentors in my career and the most important role they have played in my development is providing me with honest feedback. They have encouraged me to have a voice and stand with confidence regardless of the challenge or obstacle ahead.

What are you most proud of in your career achievements? Do you have a defining moment of your career to date? My defining moment in my career was being asked to be the liaison and lead the partnership for CVS Caremark and the Network of Executive Women while in a Diversity Management role in 2008.

This partnership drove development, diversity and inclusion within our organization at the time and continues today, in my new capacity with Walmart Stores, Inc.

I am most proud of the women we have supported and mentored through the College Outreach/Mentoring program with the Network of Executive Women.

Most challenging part of your job: I love my job and the work that I do to advocate and develop my team, but the most difficult challenge in my role or any role, is staying relevant.

Being ahead of the change, making time to think, brainstorm and innovate in a fast past environment is not always easy, but absolutely necessary.

Advice for upcoming younger executives: Be true to yourself always! Drive your own development, don’t wait for others to. There is meaning in setbacks, learn from them and move on. Learn how to have difficult conversations with respect and genuine interest for the person you are speaking with. This will be so valuable in your career. Find out what differentiates you from the pack and leverage this.

Hobbies: I enjoy reading, walking with my dogs, interior decorating and I love to bake!

Women of Influence

Women of Influence in the Food Industry is brought to you by The Griffin Report, and is supported by individuals and companies throughout the food industry who understand the importance of recognizing achievement and innovation. Sponsors are welcomed to help continue and support the mission of Women of Influence in the Food Industry.